Adequate levels of vitamins and minerals are crucial to an individual’s proper growth and development, as well as maintenance of good oral health. When a person has a deficiency of one or more of these substances, symptoms may affect various areas of the body, including the mouth and teeth.

Vitamins are organic substances (which contain carbon and hydrogen) that help maintain the body’s normal metabolic functions. Minerals are inorganic substances (which do not contain carbon and hydrogen) that are also essential to metabolic functions and nutrition. For the most part, these substances come from sources outside the body -- mainly the diet.

Individual people have varying needs for vitamins and minerals based on their age, gender, physical health, daily activity regimen, and whether or not they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Most people who do not have illnesses or other special conditions can get the required amount of vitamins and minerals simply by eating a well-balanced diet. However, some people do not get the proper amount of these substances and end up with a vitamin or mineral deficiency.

Some vitamin deficiencies may cause a burning sensation of the tongue and mouth. Patients may have swallowing difficulties and the tongue may feel like it is swollen. Some deficiencies of the B vitamins may cause paleness and weakness of the tissue in the inner cheek, or excessive salivation. Mineral deficiencies can cause similar problems, and may contribute to improper development of the teeth or the bones of the mouth.